“Other seed fell on rocky ground where it didn’t have much soil, and it grew up quickly since the soil wasn’t deep. But when the sun came up, it was scorched, and since it had no root, it withered away.” Matthew 13:5-6
Some years ago, at Christmas I was looking for that special gift for my wife, Christy. At that time in our lives, we had everything we ever needed and more. So, finding something unique was difficult. Finally, after much personal debate I made the tough decision. We had talked about this many times and now I felt it was time to just do it! I bought us a year’s membership at the gym. We both needed to get in shape. (We had shape – just not the right one!) Thinking a year’s gym membership bought and paid for would be motivation for us to really get serious about getting exercise, I made this my BIG gift!
Though my most gracious wife was indeed impressed I had bought and paid a year’s worth of membership at the gym (she agreed we needed it!) for over $400, she was obviously much more excited about two bags of her favorite chocolates for $8.00!
The inspiration for a precious gift for my wife turned out to be much greater than our motivation to exercise at the gym even at $400+. If my memory serves me correctly, we may have gone twice in the entire year. (We do try to forget the mistakes we make!)
Oh, but the chocolates were sure good!
In the Spiritual life this same kind of event takes place. People hear about the grace and mercy of the Lord and get excited. They go so far even to the point of baptism and joining the church in their excitement. But their initial commitment isn’t enough to keep them coming to weekly worship and Bible study to help them grow in their faith and walk with the Lord. They drift away before the church community has a chance to make them feel the love and acceptance of the family of God.
Had my wife and I taken advantage of a personal trainer (a benefit of the year’s membership) we might have reached the goal of getting into shape! As it was, we never gave the gym the opportunity to help us get fully involved in physical fitness. I had forgotten a key issue. My wife often said she was allergic to exercise!
Early in our married life as new Christians my wife and I missed several weeks of church attendance for one reason or another. Thankfully, faithful members of the church drew us back into fellowship and we became faithful followers of Christ! May we be so faithful to those who have lost their way.
Blessed by you… Bro. Sherman
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